Merz to Washington: Europe Doesn’t Need the U.S. to ‘Save Democracy’ Anymore | APT

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has delivered one of his strongest messages yet to Washington, declaring that Europe does not need the United States to “save democracy” and must instead push toward greater strategic independence. Speaking in Mainz during a joint news conference with Rhineland-Palatinate State Premier Alexander Schweitzer, Merz sharply reacted to the newly released U.S. national security strategy—calling parts of it understandable, parts comprehensible, but some aspects “unacceptable” from a European perspective.

Merz emphasized that Europe must take responsibility for defending its own democratic systems, stressing, “If democracy needed saving, we would manage that on our own.” He warned that the document reaffirmed a shifting U.S. posture, saying Europe must prepare for an era where security policy is far less dependent on Washington.

He also highlighted the limits of the “America First” doctrine, telling U.S. officials that while prioritizing American interests is their right, “America alone cannot be in your interest” and that strong global partnerships remain essential. Merz insisted Europe—and Germany in particular—must become a more capable and autonomous security partner.